Campbell’s Classic Green Bean Casserole

Nothing says comfort like a warm dish of Campbell’s Classic Green Bean Casserole. This beloved recipe has been warming hearts and homes across America for decades, especially during the holiday season. With its creamy texture and crispy onion topping, it’s a dish that combines simplicity with classic flavors.

What makes this recipe special is its harmony of ingredients, which come together to create a satisfying side dish that complements any meal. The combination of green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for many families.

Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or looking for an easy weeknight meal, Campbell’s Classic Green Bean Casserole is perfect for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

Unique Flavor Profile: The creamy mushroom soup mixed with soy sauce and black pepper brings a depth of flavor that elevates simple green beans into a delicious side dish.
American Favorite: This casserole has become a staple at family gatherings, particularly during the holidays, symbolizing warmth and tradition.
Texture Highlights: The contrast between the creamy filling and the crunchy fried onions creates an appealing texture that keeps everyone reaching for seconds.
Best Served At: Primarily enjoyed during fall and winter holidays, it also shines at potlucks and barbecues, making it a versatile side.
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is quick and uncomplicated, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

How to Make Campbell’s Classic Green Bean Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish, stir together the condensed soup, milk, soy sauce, and a dash of black pepper until smooth.
Stir in the drained green beans and half of the crispy fried onions to the mixture.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until it is hot and bubbling.
Stir the casserole again and sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top.
Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the onions are golden brown.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp soy sauce
Dash black pepper
2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained
1 can (6 oz) French’s Crispy Fried Onions, divided

Directions

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish, stir the soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper.
Stir in the green beans and half of the crispy fried onions.
Bake for 25 minutes or until hot and bubbling.
Stir and sprinkle with the remaining fried onions.
Bake for 5 more minutes or until the onions are golden brown.

How to Serve Campbell’s Classic Green Bean Casserole

Best Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs beautifully with roast turkey, ham, or beef, making it perfect for any festive meal.
Pairing Ideas: For a complete holiday feast, serve it alongside mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce.
Tips for Presentation: Transfer the casserole to a decorative dish before serving; garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of color.
Seasonal Variations: Consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a unique twist during special occasions.

How to Store Campbell’s Classic Green Bean Casserole

Fridge Instructions: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil. This method keeps it fresh for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Methods: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot. Microwave reheating is suitable but may make the onions less crispy.
Shelf Life: Leftovers should be consumed within a few days if kept in the fridge. Frozen portions should be used within a couple of months for optimal flavor.
Safety Notes: Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming stored food.

Tips to Make Campbell’s Classic Green Bean Casserole Perfect

Expert Cooking Tips: Use fresh green beans for a firmer texture, and experiment with different brands of mushroom soup for varied flavors.
Common Mistakes: Avoid over-baking the casserole, as this can dry out the beans and soup mixture.
Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or fresh herbs for an aromatic burst of flavor.
Texture Tips: If your casserole seems too watery, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick.
Kid-Friendly Version: Use cheese sauce instead of mushroom soup for a creamier, kid-approved version.
Budget Version: Replace fresh ingredients with canned or frozen versions while maintaining flavors.
Healthy Version: Use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and whole green beans for a healthier twist.
Seasonal Twist: Incorporate sautéed seasonal vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add the fried onions on top right before baking.

2. Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans will give the dish a nice crunch, just remember to blanch them first to soften slightly before mixing.

3. Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
The classic recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that the mushroom soup you use is vegetarian-friendly.

4. How do I make sure the onions stay crispy?
Add the fried onions during the last 5-10 minutes of baking, which helps to keep them crunchy and prevents them from getting soggy.

5. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, it’s freezable. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Reheat from frozen, adding a bit more time to cooking.

Closing

Try out Campbell’s Classic Green Bean Casserole for your next meal and watch as it quickly becomes a crowd favorite. With its simple preparation and comforting flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to save and share. Enjoy this classic dish and make it your own!